Olivia is coming home from the hospital today. It must be somewhat nice for her father, being that he works at the hospital, he can see her whenever. I arrive at the hospital to check Olivia out with her dad. Just to lend a hand. We get into the elevator and there is the man, arm in a sling. From the day before. I stand closest to the man while her dad is on the other side. There is tension between the two of them.
"What happened to you?" He asked. I look at him and then at Olivia. She responds, knowing to be kind.
"Just an accident." She smiles up at him sweetly, then looks away.
"Well, I was shot in the arm last night. Dude just walked in and started firing." I look at him wide eyed. What could he have gotten into? Where could he have been? He seems shady now.
"This is our floor. I'm sorry that happened to you..." He cuts me off.
"Knox. My name is Knox."
"I'm sorry that happened to you Knox." His name rolls off my tongue sweetly. "I hope you have a good recovery." I put my hand on his good arm and exit behind Olivia.
"Dad? Who was that man?" She asks, a hint of concern in her voice.
"No idea sweetheart. No idea." His voice is flat. His face shows anger. I think he knows who Knox is. I just don't think he wants to be caught.
"Was he the one that shot him?"
"What was that Blake?" Oh my god did I say that out loud? Shit shit shit!
"Uhm. Nothing, sorry. I was just thinking about a research project i'm doing. It's about murderers actually..." I trail off and look up at Mr. Hill with caution. He hums to himself but doesn't say anything. Oh boy. This won't be good. He knows I have a lead on him.
"Olivia, what do you say on grabbing a bite to eat before we leave? They actually made something good in this rackety hospital." She knows he wants to talk to me but she goes anyways, not wanting to argue.
"Sure dad. I'll see you in a few." She wheels into the dining area looking back at me. Hers eyes saying "I'm sorry". I give her a nod and turn to her dad.
"Look Mr. Hill, I know who you are with a gun in your hand. I won't tell anyone anything about it. I can keep a secret. But you have to let me help you protect Olivia. And tell me who that man in the elevator was. Did you shoot him?"
"You better keep your word Blake. This is a serious matter. Yes, I shot him. Now let's go before Olivia starts worrying herself."
"She is already worrying Mr. Hill. I just want her to have a father too. She can't lose you. That's what i'm here for." We walk in and see Olivia eating. We go and sit next to her.
"So what did you talk about?" Olivia asks.
"I just wanted to give her some background for her project."
"But I won't use any of it. It's not my place to put such things in."
"Thank you Blake." Olivia says. I grab her hand and give it a slight squeeze.
"I'm sorry, I need to get going. I forgot I have something to take care of. Have a good rest of your day Olivia. Mr. Hill." I get up, push my chair in and walk out of the hospital.
YOU ARE READING
A Lesson Before Dying
Mystery / Thriller"The video has gone around everywhere. A man. Who knows how old. His experience is obvious. But that is beside the point. He is saving lives. Killing people, yes. But he is saving other people that don't deserve to be hurt." This is a book I have r...
